Visit Lynchburg, VA

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Virginia is for lovers.  We all know that.  But I think that perhaps, that phrase has been too narrowly used.  Virginia IS for lovers.  Of food, of history, of natural beauty- and of course, romantic getaways.  I’m a lover of many things, and Virginia was very satisfying.  Who needs a man when you have peanut butter pie, a visit to Poplar Forest, and miles of orchards to run amok in?  (Sorry honey- I love you too, but variety is the spice of life.  It’s been 10 years, you know I’ll always come home to you.  Apples don’t make the best bedmates.)

What to do if you would like to journey to Virginia, but along with your lover, you need to take the results of your love?  Yes, those loud, schreechy, small-ish people that often need help getting into the backseat of your car.  It’s OK- Virginia is for them, too.

Having a blast at the Putt Putt Fun Center

Virginia sounds pretty versatile.  It should, there is a lot to do.  Here are some of my favorite finds in what is perhaps a lesser known area of the state, Lynchburg.  (Never heard of it?  It’s pretty much dead center of the state, and if you are heading anywhere close by or on the way- totally worth the stop for at least an overnight visit.)  Lynchburg is gem of an area, especially to history buffs and nature enthusiasts.  Other towns might be more well known, but that just means less tourists to trip over and better parking while you see some of the most impressive historical and natural sights in the country.

With a “Real” Civil War Soldier at Appomattox

 What’s to see in Lynchburg?

The most significant place in the area to visit, in my opinion, is Appomattox Court House.  A national historical park that includes the fully restored entire village, you and your family can visit the McLean House, where Generals Lee and Grant signed (and determined) the terms of the surrender of the South.  Even though the actual courthouse was just steps away, this house was chosen because it would feel more “neutral” as it was not actual Northern government property.  This is one of the most important historical places in the country- where the USA became officially “whole” again.  You can even see the actual pens used to sign the agreement.

There is also a scavenger hunt for kids, and the park ranger will make them official “Junior Park Rangers” complete with a badge should they choose to complete the hunt and fill in the blanks.  Of course, they will need to be paroled first- so make sure you get your paperwork in order as soon as you walk in.  (Pretty cool, still printed and cut as it was during Civil War Days, and a fun souvenir for everyone.)  If you plan on visiting the rest of the state, you will need your official walking papers, so don’t mess around.  There’s a war going on- at least until everyone else gets the word.

Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest

Perhaps not as well known as Monticello, Poplar Forest was Jefferson’s retreat home, and more secluded.  Many feel that it was more personal and more reflective of the man and his tastes and pleasures, and most consider it an architectural masterpiece.  The innovative octagonal home was designed to foster Jefferson’s creativity and spend time with his family and grandchildren.  He chose Lynchburg for this home, determining that it was “the most interesting spot in the state”.

Complete with gardens, kitchen areas, and the area on which he took his constitutionals, the home is a work in progress and being restored with attention paid to every minute detail (from which shrubbery was used to how many leaves in the molding on the ceiling.

The National D-Day Memorial

This was a truly moving memorial, with thought and care put into every aspect of it.  I was in tears nearly the whole time, and I am not easily made tearful.  The aesthetics worked into the memorial makes it stand out from any other I have seen, and all branches of the Armed Forces, as well as all countries involved in the conflict were represented.

Not just a memorial, but truly a work of patriotic art that will make you proud and inspire you to your core- even if you don’t have a direct connection to the war or consider yourself the most flag-waving of citizens.  Located in Bedford, VA, (just outside of Lynchburg) and suffering the highest reported per-capita losses in the USA on D-Day, this plaza features an English garden (full of intricate and sometimes hidden meanings and background information on the war and it’s participants), stunning Victory Arch, mixed media invasion scene with landing representation that will stay with you long after you leave, this visit will be both emotional and educational for you and your family.

Natural Beauty

While in Lynchburg, you will want to take in some of the sights.  With the backdrop of graceful Blue Ridge Mountains, the area is abound with enticements.  The Blue Ridge Parkway, also known as “America’s most popular scenic drive” (quote provided by Discover Lynchburg) allows you amazing views year round from the comfort of your car, with the most fantastic often being in the fall foliage season.

Old City Cemetery

Part history, part walk in nature, this might sound like a macabre way to spend an afternoon, but it is located in a well kept and public area.  In fact, it is one of the oldest public cemeteries in the USA, and 20,000 people are buried here regardless of class, race, political standing, religion, or even cultural leaders.  Free, enslaved, and Civil War soldiers from both the North and South rest here.  In fact, soldiers from the Revolution straight through the Vietnam wars are buried at Old City Cemetery.   There are also shrub gardens, antique daffodil collections, and a medicinal garden that represents that which was used to treat soldiers.  The lotus pond and butterfly garden add to the beauty of the park.  It is, in fact, so lovely here, that weddings are often preformed.

Take a whirl on the “Ghost Swing”. Urban legend?

Not a gloomy cemetery at all, and a lovely way to spend a low key couple of hours.  There is also a kid’s guide and scavenger hunt, where they can have some interactive fun while learning- and keep busy while doing so.  They will also want to check out the talking houses and medical museum, which has some very interesting items with high gross out factors kids will love. The cemetery also offers special materials for grave rubbings- but you need to ask permission first.

Peaks of Otter Winery and Orchards

Has something for everyone.  Wine tasting from a quite expansive list for adults, and fruit picking for the whole family.  Apples, peaches, blackberries- you can pick whatever is in season, just call ahead to see what it might be.Not only can you pick your own fruit, or buy pre-picked, but you can also pick up some fresh made jellies, jams, wines, and butters.  The wines come in many varieties, from traditional, to fruit flavored, to sweet, and even spicy.  Best known for the “Chili Dawg”, a hot pepper wine that will bite you back, “Kiss the Devil” is not to be missed for fans of fiery. If you prefer something sweet or perhaps want to add a cooking wine to your stock, choose from over 20 different varieties, most of which you can taste (and buy if you would like) on site.  The staff is fun, talkative, and great with kids.

And if you want that peanut butter pie? Or anything else that doesn’t involve a happy meal, but does involve a happy mouth and full stomach (and you won’t need to run to the bank before you go, either) head over to Main Street Eatery.  This native Swiss chef serves up some authentic and fun food, as well as some classic comfort that will make you want to stay for dessert.  Come for the stroganoff, stay for the pie.

To plan your visit, check out http://www.discoverlynchburg.org/